Intro: What to Expect from the Lake Powell Boat Tour of Antelope, Glen Canyon, and Lake Powell
If you’re eyeing a boat experience that combines natural beauty with a touch of engineering marvels, this Boat Tour of Lake Powell, Antelope, and Glen Canyon offers a tempting glimpse into one of Arizona’s most iconic landscapes. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, the tour promises a 1.5-hour journey filled with breathtaking scenery and fascinating sights.
What immediately draws us in are the views of the Glen Canyon Dam, which is the second-largest concrete arch dam in the U.S., and the chance to get up close to the colorful, sculpted walls of Antelope Canyon. Plus, cruising Wahweap Bay to see towering Navajo Sandstone Cliffs sounds like a picture-perfect way to spend an afternoon.
A potential consideration is the limited duration—just an hour and a half—so if you’re hoping for a comprehensive exploration, this might feel a bit quick. Still, it’s well-suited for those seeking a relaxed, scenic experience that highlights geological formations and impressive infrastructure.
This tour is best for travelers who love natural landscapes, photography, or geology and want a taste of Lake Powell’s highlights without a strenuous hike or full-day commitment.
Key Points
- Beautiful scenery: The tour offers stunning views of Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon Dam, and Navajo Sandstone Cliffs.
- Close-up perspective: Seeing Antelope Canyon by boat provides a unique angle compared to land-based visits.
- Expert guides: Many reviews mention knowledgeable guides that enrich the experience.
- Value for money: At $119 per person, the tour seems to offer good scenic value for its duration.
- Refreshments onboard: Enjoy water, lemonade, or coffee, which enhances the relaxing vibe.
- Limited group size: Smaller groups (max 8) make for a more intimate and engaging experience.
A Detailed Look at the Itinerary and Experience
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Wahweap
Starting Point and Duration
The tour departs from Lake Powell Resorts, with boarding starting 15 minutes before the scheduled departure, and overall lasts about 90 minutes. You should arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure smooth check-in—this is a small detail but can prevent last-minute rushes.
First Stop: Antelope Canyon by Water
The first part of the cruise takes you into the lower end of Antelope Canyon. While most visitors explore the slot canyon on foot, this boat offers a different perspective—viewing approximately 4 miles of canyon walls from a boat, which some find more relaxed and less crowded. The scenery here is described as colorful and sculpted, with high walls that seem to reach for the sky, making for fantastic photos.
Note that the canyon is over 10 miles long, so a boat tour only covers a segment, but the views are enough to evoke a sense of awe. The reviews praise the informative commentary, which helps you understand the geological forces shaping these formations. One traveler mentioned: “The commentary was very informative, but we were warned at the beginning that it would be difficult to hear at the back of the upper deck due to engine noise and lack of speakers.” Climbing down to the lower deck might be necessary for better listening, so plan for that if you want to catch every detail.
Second Stop: Glen Canyon Dam
Next, the tour takes you to Glen Canyon Dam, for an up-close look at the second-largest concrete arch dam in the U.S. (after Hoover Dam). Seeing the dam from the water provides a perspective that land-based visits can’t match. Many visitors appreciate this view, describing it as impressive and a testament to human ingenuity. It’s a good reminder of how engineering has shaped the landscape, and it balances the natural beauty with a bit of history and technology.
More Great Tours Nearby
The cruise then wanders through Wahweap Bay, where you’ll enjoy views of towering Navajo Sandstone Cliffs that display stunning reds and burnt oranges. These cliffs are not just beautiful but also tell a story of millions of years of sedimentation and natural sculpting. The scenery here is often described as breathtaking and perfect for photography.
Final Stop and Return
The tour concludes back at Wahweap Marina, leaving you with plenty of memories of Arizona’s incredible waters and landscapes. Many reviewers comment on how relaxed and informative the experience was, with some noting that the cozy group size made it feel more personal.
What Travelers Are Saying
What’s working well:
Rahul from the U.S. calls the experience “fantastic” with “amazing views” and a “knowledgeable guide” adding value to the trip. Graeme from New Zealand points out that the commentary was very informative, and the coffee and lemonade onboard made the cruise even more enjoyable.
What’s less ideal:
A couple of reviews mention cancellations due to mechanical problems or lack of warning, which highlights that scheduling can sometimes be unpredictable. Also, some passengers found the sound quality challenging on the upper deck, especially since the engine noise can drown out commentary unless you move closer.
Overall impression:
Most reviews are positive, emphasizing the scenic beauty, the relaxed pace, and the good value. The experience seems particularly suited for photographers, geology enthusiasts, or those wanting a scenic overview without strenuous activity.
Practical Details and Tips
- Pricing: At $119 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price for a scenic boat trip of its length. While some might compare it to other options, many feel it’s a good value given the views and commentary.
- Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, the small group size enhances interaction and makes for a more personalized experience.
- Duration and Timing: Usually available in the afternoon, the cruise fits easily into a day’s itinerary. Remember, winter tours are available if enough people book—call ahead to confirm.
- What to Bring: Pack snacks, as no food is available onboard. Also, consider bringing layers, as it can be breezy, especially on the open upper deck.
- Accessibility: The boat is ADA accessible, and the tour is wheelchair friendly, making it accessible for many travelers.
- Park Fee: Don’t forget the $30 park fee per vehicle, which benefits the park’s upkeep and is valid for 7 days.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
This boat tour offers a wonderful glimpse into the natural and man-made wonders of Lake Powell. It’s particularly appealing if you’re after stunning scenery, a relaxed pace, and insightful commentary. It’s not a full exploration of Antelope Canyon’s famous slot formations but provides a comfortable, scenic overview that complements land-based visits.
Travelers who enjoy photography, geology, or simply want a peaceful cruise to absorb Arizona’s striking landscape will find this experience quite satisfying. The small group size and friendly guides make it a good choice for those seeking a more intimate adventure.
However, if you’re looking for a longer, more in-depth look at the canyon or the dam, or if you prefer adventure activities like hiking, this might not fully meet your expectations. Keep in mind the possible cancellations and sound issues noted in reviews, and plan accordingly.
This cruise can be a memorable addition to your Arizona trip—offering a balanced mix of natural beauty, engineering marvels, and relaxed comfort. It’s a fun, scenic way to see some of the most iconic sights around Lake Powell without the effort of hiking or long drives.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, it’s a relaxed boat cruise that’s wheelchair accessible and suitable for most ages, provided they’re comfortable with a boat ride.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity that can be easily added to a day of sightseeing.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring snacks if desired, and consider layers for comfort since the open deck can be breezy or chilly.
Are food and drinks available for purchase onboard?
No, the tour provides water, coffee, and lemonade but does not sell additional food or drinks.
What is the cost, and is it worth it?
At $119 per person, many find it a good value given the scenic views and commentary. It’s a moderate price for a memorable half-day experience.
Are there any seasonal restrictions?
Winter tours are available if at least 20 passengers are booked 48 hours in advance—call ahead to confirm.
Can I expect to see Antelope Canyon from the water?
Yes, the boat provides an up-close view of the canyon walls—a different perspective from land visits, with about 4 miles of canyon scenery viewed during the cruise.
To sum it up, if you are seeking a relaxing way to see some of the most iconic and beautiful scenery around Lake Powell, this boat tour offers excellent value, stunning sights, and knowledgeable guides. Perfect for those wanting a gentle introduction to the region’s natural and human-made marvels, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Arizona itinerary.
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